Paris in December is a magical experience, especially for a Christmas Family Vacation. The city transforms into a winter wonderland, offering a unique blend of festive cheer and iconic sights. Planning a trip to Paris during the Christmas season requires some forethought to make the most of your time. Let’s craft an unforgettable family adventure in the City of Lights this December.
When you arrive, especially after a long journey, take it easy on your first day. Jet lag can be tiring, so allow yourselves to adjust. A gentle introduction to Paris is ideal. Consider a leisurely stroll through your neighborhood to soak in the Parisian atmosphere. Finding a cozy café for dinner will be a delightful way to start your vacation. For a relaxing evening activity, a Seine River cruise, such as Vedettes de Pont Neuf, offers beautiful views of illuminated Paris landmarks without being too strenuous.
Alt text: The Eiffel Tower beautifully illuminated and sparkling against the night sky in Paris during Christmas time. Families stroll along the Seine River bank in the foreground, enjoying the festive atmosphere.
For your main days in Paris, from December 28th to 30th, you can explore many of the city’s famous attractions. However, to maximize your time and enjoyment, it’s wise to be selective. While the Champs-Élysées is well-known, it can be very crowded and tourist-focused, potentially taking up valuable time better spent elsewhere. Consider focusing on experiences that offer more cultural richness and family appeal.
Reservations are absolutely essential for popular attractions, particularly during the Christmas holiday season. Book in advance for the Louvre Museum, Eiffel Tower visits (going up), the Catacombs, Musée d’Orsay, and even Notre Dame if access is available during your visit. Keep in mind that some of these sites, like the Louvre, can easily take up several hours, while others might be shorter.
Montmartre, with its artistic charm and the Sacré-Cœur Basilica, is located in the northern part of Paris and is a must-see. To make your itinerary efficient, try to group attractions geographically. Consult a map of Paris and plan your days to minimize travel time between locations, whether walking or using the Metro. Think about dedicating mornings and afternoons to one or two key sights, leaving room for spontaneous discoveries, lunch breaks, and simply enjoying the Parisian ambiance.
Alt text: A vibrant Christmas market scene in Paris with families enjoying ice skating. Colorful market stalls and festive decorations surround the ice rink, creating a joyful holiday atmosphere for a Christmas family vacation.
Given that December days are short, be mindful of sunrise and sunset times, especially if you plan outdoor activities. However, the early sunsets also mean you can enjoy the magical Christmas lights of Paris earlier in the evening! Don’t miss the Sainte-Chapelle, a short walk from Notre Dame. Its stained glass windows are breathtaking, and on a sunny day, the light filtering through them is truly spectacular. Even on a cloudy day, the chapel’s beauty is undeniable. Check if there are any Christmas concerts being held in churches throughout Paris during your visit; these can be a wonderful way to experience the city’s culture.
If you find yourself near the Opéra Garnier, take a moment to step inside and admire its opulent architecture. It’s close to the Galeries Lafayette department store, which is also worth a visit, especially for its stunning Christmas decorations and rooftop views of Paris.
Alt text: Magnificent Christmas decorations inside Galeries Lafayette department store in Paris. A giant Christmas tree and elaborate festive displays create a luxurious and enchanting shopping experience for families during their Christmas vacation.
For New Year’s Eve activities, it’s advisable to research specific events happening in Paris. Restaurants will likely require reservations for New Year’s Eve dinner, so book as soon as you have decided on your plans to avoid disappointment.
While Versailles is magnificent, it typically requires a full day trip. For a shorter December visit focused on Paris itself, it might be best to save Versailles for a future trip. Focus on immersing yourselves in the Parisian Christmas spirit this time.
Enjoy the magic of Paris during your Christmas family vacation! With a bit of planning and a focus on key experiences, you’re sure to create lasting memories in this beautiful city.
